Mar. 15, 2009

Ladysmith Black Mambazo performed Sunday. / publicity photo

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The first was more than 20 years ago in Berkeley, Calif., when the South African a cappella group accompanied Paul Simon on his "Graceland" tour -- a concert tour whose moniker of "historical" seems to be standing the test of time.

"Oh yeah, I saw Ladysmith on the 'Graceland' tour," I say, and many people my age seem to know what I'm talking about.

The significance of Paul Simon's discovery and successful capitalization of Ladysmith Black Mambazo can't be overstated when it comes to the realm of world music. The group has enjoyed phenomenal success, having recorded more than 30 albums and earning a dozen Grammy nominations.

The second time I saw the group was a couple of years ago at Wingfield Park on a hot July evening. Although my view of the stage was obstructed by several groups who refuse to acknowledge the difference between low-back and high-back lawn chairs, the venue, the warm July breeze and the diverse, enthusiastic Artown audience were perfect matches for Ladysmith Black Mambazo.

Reno's Grand Sierra Resort, however, was a less-than-ideal venue. The atmosphere is pleasant and every comfy seat affords a good view of the stage, but there was a distance and lack of intimacy that made Sunday night's concert a performance, rather than an event.

The eight-man group sings the traditional South African style of music, which the National Geographic music Web site calls isikhwela jo ("bombing") and isicathamiya ("to walk on one's toes lightly"). Ladysmith was founded by Joseph Shabalala in 1964. The 67-year-old Shabalala still leads the group, which includes four other Shabalalas. Their dreamy chants, haunting harmonies and soft-shoe dance steps are steeped in African tradition. Although they sing most of their songs in their native language, their gestures and intonation bridge the culture gap.

During its dozen or so song set, the group took its audience on a trip from the mines of South Africa and through the triumphs of Nelson Mandela. It's hard not to be moved by this group and its music.

The concert was an off-season Artown event and was introduced by Beth Macmillan, Artown's executive director. In her welcoming remarks she said this July's festival will hold some surprises. Hint: Expect to hear the words "July 32nd" a lot this year.